WHO KNEW It’s So Easy to Reuse and Recycle Unneeded Clothing?

Styles change. While the Upper Valley isn't a super fashion-forward place where people feel they must keep up with every trend, it is like any other place in terms of choices people make over time. Kids grow. What do we do with their clothing when it no longer fits? Adults retire. What do we do with our work clothes?

Instead of stashing these clothes in the back of a closet "just in case" and then forgetting about them, an easy and helpful alternative is to give unused items in good condition to LISTEN's thrift stores in West Lebanon and White River Junction. The money LISTEN earns from selling donated clothing, accessories and shoes helps fund programs that help neighbors and communities in need.

Or look for the white "Apparel Impact" collection bins for usable clothing, accessories and shoes. Bins are located at several parking lots in the area, including the Hanover Coop. Money from donated items goes to support lower income communities and veterans. These bins also take fabric and old clothes.

There are also some long-standing and fun annual events you might consider:

Coming up on Saturday, May 31 is the St Thomas Episcopal Church "Jumble Sale" (that's British slang for "yard sale"). Items can be donated at the church on West Wheelock Street, Hanover, on May 26 - 29. For details, drop-off times, and hours of the sale, see the church's website: https://www.saintthomashanover.org. All proceeds go to local non-profits.

Unfortunately we just missed this year's Etna Spring Rummage Sale sponsored by the Church of Etna and Hanover Center. (Definitely watch for this fun event next spring!) But in September you can get information on the Fall Etna Ladies' Aid Rummage Sale, date and details to be announced. Here's the website: etnahanovercenterchurch.org

Probably the Upper Valley's best known consignment event is the Norwich Women's Club Nearly New Sale, scheduled for October 17-19. Clothing, shoes and accessories in very good condition are accepted. Half of the sale price goes to support community groups, and half goes to you, the consignor. Consignment is done mostly online, but they do inspect some donated items in person. Here's their website: (www.norwichwomensclub.org)

Also there are several local retailers where you can earn some money by consigning your unused clothes - including The Pink Alligator in West Lebanon, and Revolution, The Collection, and Uplifting Thrifting, all in downtown White River Junction. On a slightly different note, Gear Again in WRJ consigns used sports clothing and equipment. Check the internet for info on consignment shops in other Upper Valley towns as well.